Chipotle Cheese Fondue

Chipotle Cheese Fondue Recipe from Switzerland | Gruyere & Emmental Cheese

Region / culture: Switzerland | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Chipotle Cheese Fondue is a delicious and indulgent dish that is perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in. This recipe combines the rich and creamy flavors of cheese with the smoky and spicy kick of chipotle peppers, creating a unique and flavorful fondue experience.

History

Fondue originated in Switzerland as a way to use up leftover cheese and bread. It quickly became a popular dish for social gatherings and parties, as it is interactive and fun to eat. The addition of chipotle peppers to the traditional cheese fondue recipe adds a modern twist and a bold flavor profile.

Ingredients

0.5 lb (227 g) finely diced gruyere cheese (about 2 cups)
0.5 lb (227 g) finely diced emmental cheese (about 2 cups)
1.5 tbsp cornstarch
2 cloves garlic, halved
1.33 cups dry white wine
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2-3 tbsp kirsch
freshly ground nutmeg, to taste if desired
3 canned whole chipotle chiles in adobo, to taste, minced (about 1.5 tbsp, *available at Hispanic markets and some specialty foods shops)
fried shallots or thinly sliced scallion tops or crumbled cooked bacon, for stirring into fondue if desired

For the fried shallots

1.5 cups thinly sliced shallots (about 8 large)
4 tbsp vegetable oil

Accompaniments

assorted cooked vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, pearl onions, and potatoes
breadsticks
cubes of day-old french bread or italian bread or sourdough bread

How to prepare

In a bowl, toss together the cheeses and cornstarch.
Rub the inside of a heavy 3- to 4 qt (3.78 liter) saucepan with garlic halves, leaving the garlic in the pan, and add wine and lemon juice.
Bring the liquid just to a boil and stir in the cheese mixture by handfuls.
Bring the mixture to a bare simmer over moderate heat, stirring, and stir in kirsch, nutmeg, chilies, and pepper to taste.
Transfer the fondue to a fondue pot and set it over a low flame.
Stir in fried shallots, scallions, and/or bacon if using, and serve the fondue with accompaniments for dipping.

Note

Stir the fondue often to keep it combined.

To make the fried shallots

In a heavy 10- to 12-inch skillet, cook the shallots in oil over moderately high heat, stirring, until golden brown.
Transfer the shallots with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain and season with salt.
Makes about 0.67 cup.

Variations

Substitute different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Add cooked bacon or fried shallots for extra flavor and texture.
Use different types of chilies for a spicier or milder fondue.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to finely dice the cheese to ensure it melts smoothly and evenly.

- Rubbing the inside of the saucepan with garlic adds a subtle garlic flavor to the fondue.

- Stir the fondue often to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

- Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers to suit your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chipotle Cheese Fondue with assorted cooked potatoes, breadsticks, and cubes of day-old sourdough bread for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Toss the cheese with cornstarch to help thicken the fondue.

- Stir in the cheese gradually to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Keep the fondue warm over a low flame to prevent it from solidifying.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth or apple cider as a non-alcoholic alternative to white wine.

- Substitute vegetable oil for the kirsch if desired.

- Use smoked paprika or cayenne pepper instead of chipotle peppers for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

The cheese mixture can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use. Reheat gently over low heat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chipotle Cheese Fondue in a fondue pot or a decorative bowl for a festive and interactive dining experience. Garnish with fresh herbs or additional chipotle peppers for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chipotle Cheese Fondue with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling, to complement the rich and creamy flavors. Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Chipotle Cheese Fondue can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring constantly, until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chipotle Cheese Fondue contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chipotle Cheese Fondue contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chipotle Cheese Fondue contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chipotle Cheese Fondue contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chipotle Cheese Fondue is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy and gluten.

Summary

Chipotle Cheese Fondue is a rich and indulgent dish that is high in fat and protein. It is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Chipotle Cheese Fondue is a delicious and indulgent dish that is perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in. With its rich and creamy texture and bold flavor profile, this fondue is sure to be a hit with friends and family. Enjoy this unique twist on a classic dish for a memorable dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe. It was a cold winter evening, and I had invited some friends over for a cozy dinner. I wanted to make something special, something that would warm their hearts and their bellies. That's when I stumbled upon the recipe for Chipotle Cheese Fondue.

I had never heard of such a dish before, but something about the combination of spicy chipotle peppers and gooey melted cheese intrigued me. I knew I had to give it a try. So, armed with the recipe and a sense of adventure, I set out to create my own version of this delicious dish.

The first step was to gather all the ingredients. I made a list and headed to the grocery store, where I carefully selected the perfect cheeses and the freshest chipotle peppers. I could already imagine the smoky, spicy aroma that would fill my kitchen as the fondue bubbled away on the stove.

As I started to prepare the dish, I couldn't help but think back to all the recipes I had learned over the years. My grandmother had been an amazing cook, and she had passed down her love of cooking to me. I remembered watching her in the kitchen, her hands deftly chopping vegetables and stirring pots on the stove. I had learned so much from her, and now I was putting that knowledge to good use.

I chopped the chipotle peppers finely, savoring the spicy scent that filled the air. I grated the cheeses, feeling the satisfaction of creating something from scratch. I knew that this dish would be a hit with my friends, and I couldn't wait to see their reactions.

As the fondue started to bubble and melt, I added a splash of white wine to give it a bit of tang. The aroma was intoxicating, and I couldn't resist sneaking a taste. The combination of spicy chipotle and creamy cheese was perfection. I knew that this dish would be a new favorite in my collection of recipes.

Finally, the fondue was ready. I set it out on the table, surrounded by chunks of crusty bread and crisp vegetables for dipping. My friends gathered around, their eyes widening at the sight of the bubbling pot of cheesy goodness. I smiled as I watched them dip their bread and veggies into the fondue, their faces lighting up with pleasure.

As we ate and laughed together, I couldn't help but feel grateful for all the recipes I had collected over the years. Each one was a reminder of the love and care that went into preparing a meal for those we care about. And this recipe for Chipotle Cheese Fondue was no exception.

I knew that I would be making this dish again and again, sharing it with friends and family for years to come. It was a testament to the joy of cooking, of creating something delicious and satisfying from simple ingredients. And as I watched my friends enjoy every bite, I knew that this recipe would always hold a special place in my heart.